An Archaeological Guide to Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula

Listing all the major and lesser-known sites and how to get to them, this is a guide to 91 sites and 8 archaeological museums on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, a region known worldwide for its magnificent tropical forests and Maya ruins. Photographs, drawings, maps and site plans illustrate the text.

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This is an easy-to-read guide to 91 sites and 8 archaeological museums on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, a region known worldwide for its magnificent tropical forests and Maya ruins. Clear photographs, drawings, maps and site plans illustrate the text. This handbook lists all the major and lesser-known sites, how to get to them, and enough information about each to help the reader determine whether it is worth visiting and how much time a visit will require. Among the ruins discussed are the spectacular and recently discovered Balamku and the Sacbe (the location of which was lost for many years). The more famous tourist attractions, such as Chichen Itza, Uxmal, Tulum and Labna are described in detail. The sites and museums are rated from 0 to 4 stars so that readers are given an indication of how worthwhile a visit will be. Ratings are based on the site's relative importance, degree of preservation or restoration, and ease of access compared with the visual rewards of the ruin. The current name and original names (where known) are given, with phonetic pronunciations The sites are arranged in geographical sections, each co-ordinated with a map or maps.
The general information about each area includes the availability of accommodations and restaurants, car rentals and gas stations. The text for each site includes the history of the place and its archaeology and a description of the ruins. The author also details the road connections, exact mileages and conditions. Where travellers must hire a guide, the text names local guides and tells how to get in touch with them. A "General Advice" section at the beginning of the book describes everything from proper clothing and footgear, to where to acquire the best maps and other aids. Joyce Kelly has visited each site personally. She provides readers with up-to-date information presented as clearly, simply and accurately as possible. Readers should easily find the exact information they need.